North Augusta reviews Georgia Avenue traffic calming study for safer pedestrian access

The City of North Augusta's Planning Commission convened on April 16, 2025, to discuss the Georgia Avenue Traffic Calming and Pedestrian Access Study, a project aimed at enhancing safety and accessibility in the downtown area. This initiative, funded by a $50,000 grant from the Augusta Regional Transportation Study, with the city contributing $10,000, has been in development since 2021.

The meeting featured a presentation by Joe Robertson, an engineer and North Augusta native, who outlined the study's objectives. The primary goal is to create a pedestrian-friendly environment along Georgia Avenue, particularly from the bridge to Martintown Road. The study emphasizes traffic calming measures to address speeding issues identified in the area, where data showed vehicles often exceed the 30 mph speed limit, especially at the southern and northern ends of the corridor.

Robertson shared findings from traffic data collected in August 2022, revealing that daily vehicle counts reach approximately 25,000 near the river, tapering off to around 18,000 further north. Projections indicate that traffic volumes could rise significantly over the next two decades, potentially exceeding 40,000 vehicles per day if current growth trends continue.

Safety concerns were also highlighted, with a report of around 300 crashes over the past six years, primarily involving property damage. However, some incidents resulted in injuries, including those involving pedestrians and cyclists. The study aims to address these safety issues through targeted improvements.

Public engagement has been a crucial component of the study, with meetings held to gather input from local business owners and residents. Concerns raised included parking difficulties, speeding, and the need for better pedestrian crossings. The feedback will inform the development of specific recommendations for traffic calming measures and streetscape enhancements.

As the commission prepares to vote on the study's recommendations, the outcomes of this initiative could significantly impact the future of Georgia Avenue, fostering a safer and more vibrant downtown environment for residents and visitors alike. The next steps will involve finalizing the recommendations and exploring funding sources for implementation.